5 Important Signs of ADHD in Students

Five Characteristics of ADHD in Students

Become Easily Distracted

Constant Motion

Inattentiveness

Self-Focused Behavior

Impulsive

It is important for parents and teachers alike to recognize the signs of ADHD in students. ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. It is a manageable but problematic condition that can leave students frustrated and left behind in their education. The following are five signs children with ADHD often display in school.

1. Become Easily Distracted

A classic symptom of ADHD in students is getting easily distracted. Students may have a hard time focusing on or finishing tasks. This leads to difficulty with planning ahead and finishing projects, as well as makes it hard for the student to effectively prioritize tasks. This symptom also makes it more likely a child with ADHD will lose homework, school supplies, books and other objects. A student with ADHD may know that they lack an attention span and may show aversion to any task they know will require extended mental effort.

2. Constant Motion

Students affected by ADHD usually cannot sit still. They remain in motion and excessively fidget and squirm. Being excessively talkative is another way this symptom manifests. This makes it difficult for a student to work quietly or even relax, which can result in stress-related health issues. Not every child diagnosed with ADHD is hyperactive, even though it is the most common symptom noticed by teachers and parents.

3. Inattentiveness

Students with ADHD do not always seem to be listening. They may seem like they are lost in their own worlds and unmotivated. This leads to careless mistakes, not remembering instructions and a lack of attention to details. However, they do tend to be able to concentrate on and show interest in subjects or tasks they enjoy. This sign is usually more common in female students with ADHD according to Scholastic, which can make it harder for girls to get the help they need with their learning disorder.

4. Self-Focused Behavior

ADHD-affected students often display strong self-focused behavior. This includes interrupting others and having difficulty waiting their turn. They may not consider how their actions affect others, which can leave them ostracized from their peer groups. Other students may see ADHD students as weird and selfish, which can make it incredibly difficult for students with ADHD to make friends. This can unfortunately lead to mental illness such as depression and self-esteem issues, so it is imperative this sign is addressed sooner rather than later so the student may go on to lead a more normal social life.

5. Impulsive

Impulsiveness is a common sign of ADHD in students. They may act without thinking, make guesses without taking the time to work through a problem, have trouble controlling their emotions and other similar behavior. This makes it incredibly difficult for students with ADHD to be patient or wait for something. There are behavioral treatments as well as medication that can ease this symptom, as well as the others, to make the life of the student, their parents and their teachers easier.

Do note that any symptom of ADHD may be something else, so it is important that a doctor examine the child to provide an official diagnosis. It’s also important to remember that ADHD leads to positive effects in students, such as creativity, energy, enthusiasm and flexibility. Look for these signs of ADHD in students to ensure they get the support they need to succeed in school.